FEBRUARY 7, Psalm 145:14

Christopher buried his face deep into his pillow and cried softly. He did not hear someone slip quietly into his room, but a gentle touch caused him to look up from his bed. His mom was looking down at him. “What’s the matter, Christopher?” she asked as she sat down beside him. “Is there some problem I can help you with?”
Christopher felt a warm blush color his face. He didn’t really want to tell his mother what was bothering him. “Something happened at school,” he stammered finally. “I... lied to Aaron, and now he won’t talk to me. He knows I lied.”

“Why did you do that?”Mom asked gently.“I...I don’t know,”mumbled Christopher. He sniffed. “I told him I was sorry, but I don’t think he believes me. I don’t blame him.”

“Christopher, do you remember when your Dad and I used to give you piggyback rides?” asked Mom. Christopher nodded, wondering why Mom had brought that up.“You thought it was so much fun until you slipped off one day and hit your head on a chair,” said Mom. “After that it took you a while to trust us enough to try it again.”
“But I finally did!” Christopher said. He thought he knew what Mom was getting at. “Yes, and I’m sure Aaron will trust you again, too,” said Mom. She patted Christopher’s back.“It takes time for people to trust one another again,” she said, “but let me tell you something wonderful.” She smiled.

“When you’re truly sorry for the wrong you’ve done and confess it to God, He forgives you right away. There may still be sad consequences for what you’ve done–like a friend who won’t speak to you for a while. But you need to believe God when He says He forgives you. He wants you to be a good friend to Aaron again. Do you think you can do that?”
Christopher nodded. “I’ll be a great friend!” he promised.

Thought: Have you ever done anything that made you feel you might never be forgiven? If your heart is right, God knows you are really sorry. He will forgive you right away and help you to make things right with others, too. Trust Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, do forgive me for the times when I have sinned. You know I am sorry. Help me to break away from the sin that can trap me. Please help me to be strong against sin, and I know I will be if I rely on Your strength. In the precious name of my Saviour I pray, amen.